The Maritime Trades Department opposes the extension of this Jones Act Waiver, even in its limited form. Anything other than a true, national security threat, should never waive existing law, and as has been confirmed, this waiver has provided almost no relief to consumers at the gas pump.
The Jones Act is the backbone of American maritime and its requirements preserve American jobs throughout the entire industrial base. Every voyage that has been handed to a foreign vessel through this waiver undermines job security for American workers.
The extension of the waiver not only erodes jobs, but it deprives every American of real relief from rising costs, putting continued pressure on the entire working class. Gas prices remain higher than they were six months ago, while oil traders and foreign oil companies pocket the difference and post record profits.
The MTD thanks every mariner, union member and ally who has raised their voice and urges the Administration to end this waiver completely and put American workers first.